Vehicles in parking lots always present a target for thieves. Here are some steps you can take to diminish the chance that your car will be broken into or stolen.

Lock your car whenever it is unattended, both on and off campus.

Do not leave expensive property, such as CD cases, purses, radar detectors, cell phones and portable stereos in plain view in your car. Lock them in your trunk or take them into your residence. Cover up conspicuous stereo equipment. Remember that thieves target after-market stereo equipment, not factory installed equipment.

If you have expensive stereo equipment in your car, consider investing in a car alarm. If you have a car alarm, turn it on.

Record the brand, model numbers and serial numbers of all electronic equipment installed in your car. In the event of theft, give this information to the police. If the equipment is recovered it can then be returned to you. Also engrave your driver's license number on this equipment. An engraver is available for your use at Campus Safety.

Park in your designated campus parking lot; make every attempt to park your car off the street, if possible. If not, park in a well lighted area.

Engrave your Vehicle Identification Number (found on your registration or under the windshield on the driver's side) on the doors, windows, fenders and trunk lids of your car. This will prevent theft, because the thief will need to replace these parts before selling the car.

Use a steering wheel lock when your car is parked. While these devices can be defeated, a thief may decide it's not worth the effort.

Updated 10/16/07